Peru’s Prime Minister Pedro Cateriano Bellido announced the Government of President Ollanta Humala has allocated S/.1.5 billion (about US$470 million) for the development of science, technology and innovation in the country, through competitive funding for the period 2012-2016.
Actions were carried out within the framework of the National Agreement twentieth State policy “Development of Science and Technology.”
“It is a firm, clear and unprecedented proposal aimed at bringing talent and research together, which is useful for our country,” he noted during the National Agreement session held at the Government Palace in Lima.
The budget of the National Council for Science, Technology and Technological Innovation (Concytec) has increased seven times in real terms between 2011 and 2015, which resulted in an “unprecedented growth” going from US$4.7 to US$5 million.
The education budget has grown significantly and such growth rates are to be maintained in a sustained manner until we reach the goal of 6% of GDP set by the National Agreement.
Not only “there is no development without education, but there is no future without scientific progress, either, and Government actions are taken along these lines,” he affirmed.
In line with the National Plan for Productive Diversification, President Humala enacted the Law on the Promotion of Scientific Research, Technological Development and Innovation, which enables businesses that invest in scientific research, development and technological innovation to deduct up to 175% of project expenses on their income tax returns.
“Nowadays, there is full consensus that science, innovation and technology have a positive impact in the economic growth and development of societies,” he added.
That is why he thinks it’s important that the government, political leaders and forces gathered at the National Agreement reach new consensus to make the National System of Science, Technology and Innovation more efficient to generate greater welfare among Peruvians.
(END) MDV/FHG/RMB/MVB
Published: 7/31/2015